“People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish,  but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.  Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God.  And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!” – James 3:7-10

It can be easy to speak like a Christian at church. People are generally pleasant to one another. Everyone is generally guarding their language, careful that they only say the right things. Nobody wants to stand out for bad language, right?

It may even be convenient to watch your tongue at school or work. There are people around with authority. That’s usually an area in one’s life when you are trying to be your best, so it can be prudent to be careful with your words.

However, many of those safeguards and positive pressures often go out the window when you walk in the locker room. Maybe it’s the older players letting the bad language fly. Perhaps you hear the team leaders tearing others down with their words. It may seem that everyone speaks in a way you never would at home. It could even be your coach leading the way.

The Bible is very clear about the power of the tongue, and the danger that comes with that power. Our language matters. Every word matters. I am not merely talking about avoiding bad language. Our words should be meant to bring others closer to Christ.

Accountability, encouragement, and sharing the gospel are the ways in which we are called to use our tongue. The Bible, Old Testament and New, demands that we use special care with our words. Just think how much of a difference it would make if you are the only one in the locker room refraining from bad language. You could be the one player on the field lifting up your teammates. Or your voice could be the only one your teammates hear sharing an encounter with Jesus Christ.

The tongue may be the most powerful part of your body. Act accordingly.

“People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish,  but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.  Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God.  And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!” (James 3:7-10, NLT)

– Jamie Boggs

(Photo Courtesy: Ralph Arvesen)